You’ve done it, you’ve eloped! No seating charts, no family feuds over incomplete invite lists and most importantly, no need to remortgage the house — just to say “I do”. It’s been a whirlwind of adventure from start to finish, and it’s not over yet. There’s one final mountain to climb, how to announce your elopement. Don’t worry, we’ve got you! Here’s everything you need to know to make sure it goes smoothly!

Don’t Feel Bad

First off, it’s important not to worry about how to share your elopement news without upsetting loved ones. We’ve had all sorts of couples, some of whom literally haven’t told a soul, while others have been completely transparent, and everything in between. In any case, eloping is becoming far more popular and acceptable than it ever has been. 

Whether we like it or not, times are hard, and putting more of your hard-earned cash towards a house deposit while still keeping your elopement as a celebration of the two of you is often a no-brainer. With any luck, your family and friends will completely respect this!

Timing: When To Tell Everyone

We understand this is going to vary drastically from couple to couple, but it’s crucial to figure this one out. Whether you tell people right after the elopement itself, or straight after the honeymoon, from our experience, it’s often better to tell people sooner rather than later. 

The most important thing here is trying not to hurt anyone’s feelings — mainly that just means not letting Auntie Phyllis find out from a friend of a friend! Take the time you need, but try to tell everyone the happy news yourself!

PRO TIP: If you’re wondering how to announce an elopement on social media, make sure to tell your family and best friends before you post anything online!

How To Tell Your Family You Eloped

For the majority of those who elope, an ‘engagement’ party is the way to announce it all. Face to face is always going to be the most heartfelt way of letting everyone know about such a big event that’s happened in your lives. This is the perfect time to speak your truth! 

Not only can you do the event at a fraction of the cost, but you could even call it a reception so that your friends and family feel included. If you’re looking to make it into more of an occasion, you might consider adding a few ‘wedding traditions’ — giant cake gets our vote!

Here are a few other elopement announcement ideas:

• Traditional: Handwritten elopement announcement cards — this is likely to go over very well with certain people who prefer that timeless touch!
• Modern: A single stunning photo on social media (make sure to tell your closest first!)
• Personal: A video message or handwritten note
• Fun & Creative: A surprise dinner party or a themed announcement.

PRO TIP: Were some people not able to make it to your announcement? One of the most considerate and creative ways to announce your elopement to family and friends is by sending over a handwritten note or personalised message to each of them. This takes more effort and has more impact than a simple text message or email. It’s a way to make people feel involved and to show them that even though you eloped — that of course you still want them to be a part of your life moving forward.

Photos & Slideshows

Some people might struggle to understand it from an explanation alone — that’s not unusual. One of the best ways to truly connect to your closest people is through photos and videos. When they can actually see just how happy you were, there’s honestly no reason for them to disagree with your choice.

We pride ourselves on our next day sneak peeks and next week slideshow for this reason! When your nearest and dearest see your epic photos and see how happy you are, they will understand how the big white traditional wedding was off the cards.

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Ready to start your elopement adventure? As seasoned elopement experts, we’re ready to help! Get in touch and let’s get this show on the road bumpy track!!